New Delhi: In an exclusive interview filled with laughter and nostalgia, esteemed director Anees Bazmee opened up about the humorous and unforeseen challenges he faced during the making of the 2022 hit film, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’. Renowned for his knack for blending comedy with suspense, Bazmee found himself in several amusing predicaments, one of which revolved around an unlikely star of the film—a donkey.
Bazmee recounted with a chuckle, “The donkey we had on set had a unique physicality that was perfect for the character we envisioned. But, as amusing as it sounds, after only two days into the shoot, the little fellow decided to disappear on us!” This unexpected setback threw the production into a frenzy as the unique features of the donkey were essential, and replacing it was no easy feat.
The entire team, including Bazmee, found themselves in a comical search mission that led them through all sorts of crazy situations. “We had to search high and low across nearby areas in the hope of finding our star donkey,” Bazmee added, his eyes twinkling with amusement at the memory. Initially, the disappearance seemed like a catastrophe, but the quirky narrative that ensued became an unforgettable highlight for everyone involved.
Remarkably, the crew’s efforts paid off. After an extensive and somewhat quirky search, they successfully located the elusive animal. The only caveat—coordinating the donkey’s new schedule proved hilariously challenging. Bazmee humorously expressed, “I repeatedly found myself explaining to Kartik Aaryan that ‘Gadhe ki dates nahi mil rahi hai’ (we aren’t able to get the donkey’s dates), which had us all laughing!”
The saga of the donkey didn’t end there. Soon after the animal was back on set, the team faced another poignant twist. Tragically, the donkey passed away, leaving the entire crew saddened but also in a fix for finding a suitable replacement.
. This prompted another round of hunt for a stand-in, wherein Bazmee realized the often-overlooked unpredictability of working with animals. “They have their own plans and ideas. It’s very difficult to work with them,” he mused, underscoring the dynamic nature of incorporating live animals into filmmaking.
Despite these setbacks, the dedication and camaraderie among the cast and crew ensured that ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ met its production timelines. Reflecting on these incidents, Bazmee shared that the lighthearted chaos brought the team closer and added a layer of authenticity and humor to the film that audiences adored. It translates into an appreciation for the behind-the-scenes hustle that grounds every cinematic piece.
These playful anecdotes paint a vivid picture not only of the unique trials filmmakers face but also the infectious joy and fellowship that shape productions. While ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ continues to entertain audiences with its thrilling plot and comedic elements, these behind-the-scenes stories enrich the experience—providing fans with a deeper understanding of the often unpredictable and joyous process of filmmaking.
The film, starring popular actors such as Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani, enjoyed significant box office success and received widespread acclaim for its engaging storyline and humorous undercurrents. Viewing these candid revelations from Anees Bazmee illuminate the layers of dedication, creativity, and unexpected hilarity that bubble beneath the surface of a successful movie, offering fans a behind-the-scenes reel of laughter and challenges that enrich the finished work they see on screen.
Anees Bazmee’s storytelling and knack for humor, even in recounting production challenges, establish how integral humor is not just in the film’s plot but also in the spirit of filmmaking. His anecdotes serve as a tribute to the sometimes chaotic yet endearingly unpredictable nature of film production, reminding us all of the shared human experience behind cinema’s fleeting magic. These stories, anchored in real-life trials, are woven with as much care and humor as Bazmee’s films, engulfing the audience in laughter from both sides of the screen.
